Complications
W220 initiates a fascinating visual comparison, challenging the notion that Patek Philippe's higher-end movements receive superior finishing compared to their standard counterparts. By presenting detailed macro photographs of a Caliber 240 Q (Ref. 5140) and a base Caliber 240 (Ref. 5120), he invites the community to critically assess the subtle differences in craftsmanship. This post provides a rare, side-by-side examination of Patek Philippe's finishing standards across different tiers.
We sometimes hear that some of Patek’s higher end movements are finished better than their standard movements. I don't have any minute repeaters, tourbillons, split second chronos or other extremely high-end pieces, but wanted to do a quick comparison between a standard 240 movement vs. what can probably fairly be described as a mid-tier movement in the shape of the 240 Q.
It is really difficult to create the exact same photo angles and light conditions when taking pictures, so please forgive me on that, but I hope the pics will still be somewhat interesting.
All pictures on the left is from a 5140 with 240 Q movement, while all pictures on the right is from a 5120 with the base 240 movement. The watch with the 240 Q movement costs almost 4 times of the watch with the base 240 movement costs, this is obviously mainly due to the perpetual calendar complication. But is there any difference in finish between the two? You be the judge.
The Patek Philippe Reference 5120 represents a significant chapter in the manufacture s modern horological legacy, serving as the brand s premier ultra-thin automatic offering during its production run from 2006 to 2012. This reference exemplifies Patek Philippe s mastery of elegant dress watch design, combining traditional Swiss craftsmanship with contemporary refinement. The 5120 succeeded earlier ultra-thin references in the Patek lineup, establishing itself as a benchmark for sophisticated automatic timepieces and reinforcing the manufacture s position at the apex of haute horlogerie.
At the heart of the Reference 5120 beats the exceptional Caliber 240, one of Patek Philippe s most celebrated ultra-thin automatic movements. This micro-rotor movement, measuring just 2.53mm in height, features 161 components and operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour while providing approximately 48 hours of power reserve. The off-center micro-rotor, crafted in 22k gold, allows for an remarkably slim case profile while maintaining the convenience of automatic winding. The movement showcases Patek Philippe s finishing excellence with Geneva stripes, circular graining, and hand-polished bevels throughout, all visible through the sapphire caseback.
The 5120 s design philosophy centers on understated elegance and perfect proportions, housed in a 35.6mm white gold case that achieves remarkable thinness through the Caliber 240 s compact architecture. The clean white dial features applied gold hour markers and dauphine hands, creating a timeless aesthetic that embodies Patek Philippe s design DNA. Notable features include the off-center small seconds subdial at 4 o clock, a direct result of the micro-rotor configuration, and the fixed bezel that emphasizes the watch s minimalist approach. Among collectors, the Reference 5120 holds significant appeal as both an accessible entry point into Patek Philippe ownership and a sophisticated dress watch suitable for the most discerning enthusiasts. Its discontinued status has enhanced its desirability, while the white gold construction and impeccable finishing ensure its position as a serious collector s piece that exemplifies modern Patek Philippe craftsmanship.
for me no difference! Thanks for the comparison
Because the perpetual also doesnt get the better finishing you see in the high end ones. I don't know where the cut off point is for Patek for them to justify higher end finishing. In this case, the movement bridges are rounded, devoid of nice sharp edges. This, I suspect, facilitates ease of machine cutting. And you can see residual marks from beveled edges of the movement, which means it lack additional hand polishing after the machine cutting is done.
and categorizes, say a micro rotor, to be polished differently. Whether there is a final inspection criteria for a higher end vs a standard watch, I cannot comment because I don’t know. By My human nature (which may be ugly 😳) inspecting a watch which is few hundred thousand or millions vs 20-30k, I think maybe more time and scrutiny on the higher end piece, because I don’t “dare” messing with high end customers vs “general” mass produced pieces (relatively) for generic customers but that’s just
If there are other signs of hand or mechanical finishing to watch out for, I would be delighted to learn more. My thanks in advance.
Also, the perlage are closer together on the perpetual
Such Bad finishing and quoting high prices . Vacheron Constantin Finishing is Superior to patek .
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